Ohio Senate Expands Accountability and Legislative Oversight of Health Department Orders
September 24, 2020
Stephen A. Huffman News
COLUMBUS - State Senator Steve Huffman (R-Tipp City) announced this week the passage of Senate Bill 311, which would establish common-sense limitations on the Ohio Department of Health’s (ODH) ability to issue mandatory quarantine or isolation orders during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic.
Senate Bill 311 would still allow ODH to issue quarantine and isolation orders to protect Ohioans during times of a pandemic, but the orders would only apply to those who are sick or who have been directly exposed to the disease.
"This legislation provides the necessary checks and balances of power, ensuring one branch of government cannot exercise unrestricted control over the state during times of public health emergencies," said Huffman. "I am proud the Senate passed this important piece of legislation today. It is proof we are listening to the people we represent."
Senate Bill 311 also provides additional legislative oversight over ODH quarantine and isolation orders by giving the General Assembly the ability to rescind the orders through the adoption of a concurrent resolution.
For more information about this legislation, click here.
Senate Bill 311 would still allow ODH to issue quarantine and isolation orders to protect Ohioans during times of a pandemic, but the orders would only apply to those who are sick or who have been directly exposed to the disease.
"This legislation provides the necessary checks and balances of power, ensuring one branch of government cannot exercise unrestricted control over the state during times of public health emergencies," said Huffman. "I am proud the Senate passed this important piece of legislation today. It is proof we are listening to the people we represent."
Senate Bill 311 also provides additional legislative oversight over ODH quarantine and isolation orders by giving the General Assembly the ability to rescind the orders through the adoption of a concurrent resolution.
For more information about this legislation, click here.